Things To Do in Reno-Tahoe

For over 30 years, this arts and cultural festival has been a Reno tradition, featuring over 500 events during the month of July. Artown includes concerts from musicians across all genres, cultural and dance performances, theater shows, dozens of booths showcasing the work of visual artists, historical tours, interactive workshops, and so much more. If you have an appreciation for the arts, you’ll absolutely love this vibrant celebration of culture.

This classic car event sees thousands flocking to Reno to admire vehicles from the golden era of car design. Drawing car enthusiasts and nostalgia lovers from across the country, Hot August Nights is a multi-day festival featuring a Show-n-Shine, drag races, Motorspace Action Group auctions, and more car-related events. If you’re looking for things to do in Reno with high-octane energy, be sure to check out Hot August Nights.

Each year, tens of thousands of people commune in the Black Rock Desert to participate in one of the most eclectic and iconic festivals in the world, Burning Man. This week-long festival celebrates self-expression, the arts, music, and community. It’s full of unconventional art displays, unique vendors, workshops, and concerts. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind event that you have to see to believe! 

If you’re in Reno, you can’t miss out on the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West.” The Reno Rodeo rides into town each June to celebrate the best of western lifestyle. Not only will you find all the classic rodeo events from bull riding to mutton bustin’, but there’s also an entire carnival full of games and rides, line dancing, and even a cornhole tournament. It’s one of the most exciting things to do in Reno for the entire family, that both locals and visitors love.

For over 60 years, locals have gathered to watch camels and ostriches race across the finish line for three nights in a row at the International Camel & Ostrich Races. Yes, camels and ostriches (and even zebras). It’s as wild and fun as you’d imagine. This Reno tradition is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event that you won’t find anywhere else. Buy your ticket and cheer on the jockeys during their bumpy race around the track in historic Virginia City.

Our very own signature event is one of the most flavorful festivals in town bringing together delicious chili and craft beer tastings all in one place. At the Grand Sierra Beer & Chili Festival locals and visitors can sample dozens of chili recipes from local restaurants and vote on the best one, while sipping on delicious craft beers and enjoying live music. If you’re a foodie or beer lover, this is one of the tastiest things to do in Reno.

Named for its shimmering green waters, Emerald Bay is one of Lake Tahoe’s most iconic and popular destinations. It’s been named a California state park and National Natural Landmark for its picturesque beauty and nearly 1,600 acres of lush forests and granite cliffs. Visitors can hike or bike the forest trails, or spend a lake day swimming, paddle boarding, or kayaking through the turquoise waters. You can even take a private boat tour and cruise around the bay for some great sight-seeing. If you’re looking for outdoor things to do in Lake Tahoe, you definitely want to add Emerald Bay to your list.

Take a 2.4-mile journey through the sky and get a gorgeous glimpse of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and Lake Tahoe in a gondola ride at Heavenly Village. Open in both the summer and winter season, this scenic ride is the perfect opportunity to capture photos and videos from an unbelievable vantage point. And after your gondola ride, be sure to visit The Shops at Heavenly Village to explore all of the restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment.

The Lake Tahoe Golf Course is a par 71, 6,741 yard golf course with some of the most stunning views. Golf players get to practice their game with a backdrop of Mount Tallac, Twin Peaks, and even the Upper Truckee River which winds through the course. And, in the winter, the golfing doesn’t stop until warm weather arrives—keep swinging with the golf simulator available during the off-season.

Step back in time and witness one of America’s finest examples of Scandinavian architecture at Vikingsholm. Nestled in Emerald Bay State Park along Lake Tahoe, lies a hidden castle unlike any mansion you’ve ever seen before. This 38-room, Norse-style fortress was built in 1929 and once owned by Lora J. Knight. Today, visitors can tour this summer home to learn more about the family and craftsmanship. This architectural gem is a must-see for history lovers and design buffs looking for unique things to do in Lake Tahoe.

You can’t visit Lake Tahoe without hitting the slopes. Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe has some of the region’s best skiing and snowboarding with over 1,200 acres of terrain and more than 70 different trails. If you don’t already have Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe on your list of things to do in Lake Tahoe, be sure to add it to your itinerary. This popular ski resort will not disappoint! Grand Sierra Resort guests that want to spend a day on the mountain can take advantage of a special discount at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe. Book your next ski adventure and save on tickets.

Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe Discount for GSR Guests

Take advantage of an exclusive winter deal. Grand Sierra Resort guests enjoy a special discount at Mt. Rose Ski Tahoe. Book your next ski adventure and save.